Canvas of Clay: Seven Centuries of Hopi Ceramic Art

by Edwin L. Wade, Allan Cooke

“The vessels in the pages that follow open to us a world flickering with the light of a people’s collective character and shared philosophy. These vessels have bodies of clay, but they float before us in the zero gravity of wisdom and belief.” — Edwin L. Wade Canvas of Clay tells the story of Hopi ceramics from the 14th century to recent times, offering a particularly close look at the art and life of the master potter Nampeyo (1860–1942). It analyzes the specific dynamics of nearly 100 jars and bowls, all richly illustrated, weaving in many insights into Hopi history, aesthetics, and symbolism. Included are original schematic drawings that will help readers understand how pottery decoration is built from ingeniously combined design elements. This book is a glorious testament to a brilliant art form and its practitioners, presented with passion, knowledge, and respect.

Genres: History, Art

248 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2012

Reviews

[Peter Tillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book. Great pots, photos & color reproduction. See this Amazon review for the details:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...

I treasure my copy, and reread (or re-view) it regularly. A triumph of the book-designer's and printer's art. My highest possible recommendation! This wonderful book has easily earned a spot on my 100 Best Ever list. Don't miss, if you have any interest in Native American art. You can currently buy a Like New copy for around $40. Go for it!

Update 3/9/21: Used copies, and very few, are advertised for $1000+! So. No, you can't borrow mine. Sorry!